Botswana politicians rally behind South Africa’s general Mkhwanazi
Mathipa Phishego
Churches and civic organisations are being urged by a group of Botswana politicians to provide prayers and public support for Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the head of the South African police force. The campaign has been the subject of increasing national conversation since the morning of July 8.
This is in reaction to the escalating political unrest in South Africa and what organisers describe as a “critical hour” in the region’s struggle against political meddling in law enforcement and corruption. Speaking over the weekend at a press briefing.
All denominations, non-governmental organisations, and community associations throughout Botswana were urged by local political leaders to show support for General Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner.
We are requesting that all civic organisations, churches, and peace-loving Motswana offer prayers for General Mkhwanazi. Truth, justice, and accountability need to be upheld now, not just in South Africa but throughout the SADC region as well,” one of the campaign’s organisers stated.
In South Africa, General Mkhwanazi has just emerged as a major political figure. renowned for taking a firm stand against criminal activity and publicly denouncing internal police meddling.
Mkhwanazi caused a stir in early
July, when he accused top officials and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of disbanding an important task force investigating political killings in KwaZulu-Natal. The general’s comments sparked heated controversy and were backed by opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP).
He called for an immediate suspension of Minister Mchunu. It appears that Mkhwanazi is being investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) in relation to allegations that
he interfered with recent high-profile arrests.
Many people view the Botswana campaign as an uncommon yet potent demonstration of inter-national civic solidarity. However, no formal stance has been released by the Botswana government. A number of well-known politicians have endorsed the advocacy and prayer campaign.
A social media tweet purportedly from @Sello_Libram on platform X is doing the rounds. According to the organisers, they are encouraging
civic organisations and religious leaders to offer prayers for Mkhwanazi and the advancement of justice in Southern Africa.
At the time of publication, neither the post’s origin nor its legitimacy had been verified. The organisers contend that this is a regional issue rather than just a South African one. Political pressures and well-established networks of corruption are putting more and more pressure on the SADC block’s judicial institutions.
It is recommended in Botswana that churches set aside time during their
weekly sessions to offer prayers for General Mkhwanazi. Civic organisations are requested to host vigils and seminars that support regional peace, integrity, and nonpartisan policing.
Image: Created
Caption: Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi addressing the media this passed weekend.